When the evening sun casts a warm glow in my kitchen, I know it’s time to whip up something that truly warms the soul. Enter French Mustard Chicken, a recipe that turns a simple weeknight dinner into something extraordinary. The way the rich aroma of garlic and shallots mingles with the tangy Dijon and whole-grain mustards is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
What’s remarkable about this dish is how effortlessly it combines depth of flavor with ease of preparation. In just 45 minutes, I can serve up a crowd-pleasing meal that feels luxurious but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Plus, with tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy sauce and finished with fresh thyme, even the most worn-out chef will feel like a culinary master. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delightful world of French Mustard Chicken!
Why You'll Love This French Mustard Chicken
- This French Mustard Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a gourmet meal in just 45 minutes.
- The combination of Dijon and whole-grain mustards creates a mouthwatering flavor that will impress your family and friends alike.
- Its versatility means you can pair it with nearly any side, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, the rich, creamy sauce and beautifully seared chicken make for a visually stunning plate that is sure to wow your guests.
French Mustard Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1.5 lb chicken thighs – boneless or bone-in, they stay juicy and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – enhances flavor and helps in the searing process.
• 1 tablespoon butter – adds richness to the dish, making it comforting and decadent.
• 2 shallots – finely chopped for a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the mustard.
• 3 cloves garlic – minced for a fragrant and flavorful kick.
• 3 tablespoon Dijon mustard – this brings a sharp tang that elevates the chicken's taste.
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard – adds texture and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken stock – keeps the dish moist and adds savory undertones.
• 0.75 cup heavy cream – makes the sauce creamy and luscious.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste, simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
For the Garnish
• Fresh thyme – for garnish, its aromatic notes brighten up the dish and add a splash of color.
Embrace the savory delight of French Mustard Chicken and enjoy the pleasure of cooking a meal that's both satisfying and stylish!
How to Make French Mustard Chicken
-
Season the Chicken: Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is coated for maximum flavor.
-
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear them until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside for now.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, picking up all those delightful flavors left from the chicken.
-
Create the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon and whole-grain mustards along with the chicken stock. Mix well, allowing the mustards to blend into the sauce, and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes.
-
Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
-
Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme, letting it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Optional: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
French Mustard Chicken Variations
Feel free to tweak this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
-
Honey Mustard: Replace the Dijon with honey mustard for a sweeter, more mellow flavor. The sauce becomes irresistible, perfect for those who love a hint of sweetness.
-
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or tarragon instead of thyme. This simple switch will elevate the dish with aromatic complexity and a fragrant bouquet.
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon hot sauce or cayenne pepper for those who savor a little heat. The added spiciness harmonizes beautifully with the creamy sauce, appealing to adventurous palates.
-
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or eggplant. Sauté them until browned, retaining the same cooking process to explore a mushroom risotto-style delight.
-
Low-Fat Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing taste. The yogurt will yield a tangy, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with the dish's existing flavors.
-
Citrus Burst: Add the zest and juice of a lemon or orange during the simmering process for a bright, zesty complement. The citrus will invigorate every bite with freshness!
-
Nutty Creaminess: Incorporate a tablespoon of tahini for a unique nutty flavor in the sauce. This addition gives the dish a creamy texture while introducing a new layer of taste.
-
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in place of salt for a subtle yet enticing smoky note. This bold flavor twist adds a new dimension to your beloved French Mustard Chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These French Mustard Chicken is a perfect candidate for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can season the chicken thighs and store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The sauce can also be prepared ahead; simply sauté the shallots and garlic, stir in the mustards and chicken stock, then refrigerate for 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, return the chicken to the skillet, and simmer until cooked through, ensuring you have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the comfort of having this delightful dish ready to go!
What to Serve with French Mustard Chicken?
A cozy dinner deserves an array of flavorful sides to complement the rich creaminess of your dish.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture and subtle flavor balance the tangy mustard sauce beautifully. A classic pairing that is sure to please.
-
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies add freshness to your plate, offering a contrast to the richness of the chicken while enhancing the meal's visual appeal.
-
Garlic Bread: A crunchy, warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious cream sauce. It’s simple yet fulfilling and enhances the overall experience.
-
Green Salad with Vinaigrette: Crisp greens tossed in a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing bite that cuts through the creaminess of the chicken, adding a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
-
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs complements the savory flavors of the chicken without overpowering it, serving as a lovely canvas for the sauce.
-
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus brings a fresh pop of color and a delightful snap to your meal, enhancing both taste and texture with its lightness.
-
Chardonnay: Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay to highlight the dish’s creamy richness, creating a harmonious balance that elevates your dining experience.
Dine with joy and savor the perfect match for your French Mustard Chicken!
How to Store and Freeze French Mustard Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy sauce and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to rehydrate the sauce for best results.
Serving: Enjoy the thawed and reheated chicken with a fresh garnish of thyme to revive its vibrant flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making French Mustard Chicken, always start by bringing your chicken to room temperature before seasoning to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet while searing the chicken, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- For a richer flavor, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after sautéing the shallots and garlic, which will infuse the sauce with added depth.
- Keep an eye on the sauce while simmering and adjust the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer without boiling.
French Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for French Mustard Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs, as they are juicy and tend to absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. You can use either boneless or bone-in, depending on your preference. Bone-in will add a richer flavor, but boneless allows for quicker cooking.
How long can I store leftovers of French Mustard Chicken?
You can store your leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it's fully cooled before sealing to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Can I freeze French Mustard Chicken? If so, how?
Very! To freeze French Mustard Chicken, let it cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How should I reheat French Mustard Chicken?
To reheat, I suggest gently warming it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or a bit of cream to help rehydrate the sauce and keep it creamy. Stir occasionally until heated through to ensure nothing sticks to the pan.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you're cooking for someone with food allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe contains dairy and mustard, which are common allergens. You can make a dairy-free version by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative. Always check your labels to ensure they're free from allergens.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, don’t worry! Just add a little more chicken stock or cream to thin it out. Stir continuously until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the sauce should be creamy but not overly heavy, so adjust it to your taste!
French Mustard Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the Chicken: Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until soft.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon and whole-grain mustards along with the chicken stock and let simmer.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet and cover, simmering until cooked through.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme, letting it simmer for 5 minutes before serving.
Leave a Reply